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304H vs 316 Stainless Steel: Applications and Performance

At Gangsteel, a leading supplier of stainless steel, we offer high-quality SA 240 GR 304H and SA 240 GR 316 plates compliant with ASME SA 240 and ASTM A240 standards.

304H stainless steel(UNS S30409, AISI 304H, EN 1.4948) is a high-carbon austenitic grade designed for high-temperature strength up to 1500°F (815°C).

316 stainless steel(UNS S31600, AISI 316, EN 1.4401) is a molybdenum-enhanced grade for superior corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments.

Both are non-magnetic with a density of 8.00 g/cm³. This guide compares 304H vs 316 stainless steel in applications and performance, focusing on corrosion resistance, strength, and suitability for uses like plat stainless 304 and SA 240 GR 304 pipe. Contact us at admin@gangsteel.com or explore our ASME SA240 Stainless sheet.

 

Overview of 304H vs 316 Stainless Steel

304Hexcels in high-temperature environments like boilers due to its high carbon content.

316is ideal for corrosive settings, such as marine or chemical applications, thanks to molybdenum.

Both offer excellent formability but differ in performance based on environment and temperature.

 

Chemical Composition Comparison

Molybdenum and carbon content drive key differences.

Element

304H (%)

316 (%)

Role

Carbon (C)

0.04 - 0.10

0.00 - 0.08

304H’s high carbon boosts creep strength; 316’s lower carbon aids weldability.

Chromium (Cr)

18.00 - 20.00

16.00 - 18.00

Both resist corrosion via oxide layer.

Nickel (Ni)

8.00 - 10.50

10.00 - 14.00

316’s higher Ni enhances toughness.

Molybdenum (Mo)

-

2.00 - 3.00

316’s Mo improves chloride resistance.

Iron (Fe)

Balance

Balance

Base metal for structure.

Molybdenumin 316 enhances pitting resistance; carbon in 304H improves high-temperature strength.

 

Corrosion Resistance Comparison

304H: Resists mild acids and atmospheric conditions, outperforming SS204 vs SS 304.

316: Superior in chloride-heavy environments (e.g., marine, chemical) due to molybdenum.

Performance: 316 is better for corrosive settings; 304H suits non-chloride high-heat. See sa240 gr 316l.

 

Strength Comparison

Mechanical properties for annealed plates (8-75 mm thick):

Property

304H (Min)

316 (Min)

Notes

Tensile Strength (MPa)

515

515

Equal at room temperature.

Yield Strength (MPa)

205

205

Both resist deformation well.

Elongation (%)

40

40

Highly formable for plat SS 304 3mm.

Hardness (Brinell)

≤ 201 HB

≤ 217 HB

316 slightly harder due to Mo.

304H: Stronger at high temperatures (25.5 ksi at 1000°F).

316: Maintains strength in corrosive environments. See sa240 gr 304h.

 

Temperature Performance

304H: Continuous up to 1500°F (815°C); intermittent up to 1600°F (871°C).

316: Continuous up to ~1200°F (649°C); less suited for high heat.

Performance: 304H excels in high-temperature strength; 316 prioritizes corrosion resistance.

 

Weldability Comparison

304H: Fair with ER308H fillers; higher carbon risks sensitization, needing annealing.

316: Good with ER316 fillers; lower carbon reduces sensitization risk.

For welds, see sa240 gr 321.

 

Applications

304H: Boilers, heat exchangers, power generation (superheaters).

316: Marine equipment, chemical processing, pharmaceuticals.

For cost-effective options, see sa240 gr 201.

 

Cost Comparison

As of October 19, 2025:

  • 304H: $1.60-$3.50/kg.
  • 316: $2.50-$3.50/kg.

Gangsteel offers $1.60/kg for 304H, $2.50/kg for 316 FOB (MOQ 1 ton). Visit astm a 240 stainless plate.

 

Summary

304His best for high-temperature applications like boilers, leveraging its creep strength. 316 excels in corrosive environments like marine settings due to molybdenum. Choose 304H for heat, 316 for corrosion resistance.

 

 

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